China’s President Macron wants a ‘common path’ on peace in Ukraine

Beijing French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that he wanted to forge a “common path” with China on peace in Ukraine when he met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

French officials had planned to persuade Xi to use Beijing’s influence over Russian President Vladimir Putin for Macron to promote peace in Ukraine, but no significant change in China’s position has been made. He said he expected no.

Xi and Putin declared that the two governments had “endless friendship” before Moscow’s attack on Ukraine in February 2022. Beijing refused to criticize the Kremlin, but tried to appear neutral, calling for a ceasefire and peace talks.

During his meeting with Li Qiang, the second leader of the ruling Communist Party, Macron said he wanted to talk “not only about Ukraine, but about all the major conflicts and difficult situations around the world.”

“The ability to share common analysis and build common pathways is essential,” Macron said.

Li said there was likely to be a “broad consensus” between Macron and Xi Jinping, but did not say whether Beijing was willing to reach out to Moscow to reach peace. .

The conference “sends a positive signal of concerted efforts by China, France and Europe to maintain world peace and stability,” Li said.

President Macron, accompanied by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, showed European solidarity in dealing with Beijing.

Xi and Putin declared that the two governments had “endless friendship” before Moscow’s attack on Ukraine in February 2022. Beijing refused to criticize the Kremlin, but tried to appear neutral, calling for a ceasefire and peace talks.

President Macron said Wednesday in Ukraine that he wanted to “work with China on a shared responsibility for peace”. He said he hoped China would “join initiatives that benefit the Ukrainian people.”

The Xi Jinping administration sees Russia as a source of energy and a partner in opposing US domination of world affairs.

China is Russia’s biggest buyer of oil and gas and supports revenues for the Kremlin, which faces Western sanctions. While this would increase China’s influence, Xi appears reluctant to put pressure on Putin and jeopardize that partnership.

Meanwhile, NATO’s 31 member states warned Wednesday of “serious consequences” if China started sending arms and ammunition to Russia.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said giving “lethal aid” would be a “historic mistake”. I didn’t.

Last week, von der Leyen warned that the European Union must be prepared to take steps to protect trade and investment that China could use for its own security and military purposes. bottom.

President Macron said on Wednesday that he would promote “working together” with China on climate change. He said France will organize a global conference on marine protection in 2025 and that China should be part of these efforts.